Janibek Alimkhanuly expects to return to the ring sooner than originally expected.
The WBO middleweight champion believes his suspension will soon be lifted. Recently, Alimkhanuly shared his confidence on social media.
“See you soon! I’m coming to collect every belt in the middleweight division! Huge thanks to all the fans who believe in me! Special respect to World Boxing Organization!”
Sources close to the situation indicate to Boxing Social growing optimism within his camp. Team Alimkhanuly expects the World Boxing Organization to reverse its earlier ruling.
Previously, the WBO suspended Alimkhanuly for one year. The decision was made retroactive to December 2, 2025. Despite that move, he retained his status as champion during the suspension.
Soon after, Alimkhanuly filed a formal appeal. He asked the WBO to reconsider the punishment. His team argued for a quicker resolution to the case.
In an official notice, WBO President Gustavo Olivieri confirmed the suspension. The WBO World Championship Committee supported the decision unanimously. The ruling barred Janibek Alimkhanuly from all boxing and exhibition activity for one year.
In the interim, the WBO moved to keep the division active. The committee approved an interim title fight between top contenders—Denzel Bentley and Endry Saavedra. Under the ruling, once the suspension ends, Alimkhanuly must face the interim champion. Bentley won the bout and claimed the title.
Alimkhanuly tested positive for meldonium ahead of a December 6 unification bout with WBA champ face Erislandy Lara.
At the time, Alimkhanuly strongly denied any wrongdoing. Alimkhanuly now claims that the prohibited substance was used to treat an emergency medical condition in his native Kazakhstan.
An official ruling by the WBO is expected soon.
